LYNCHBURG, Va. — Averett University volleyball suffered its first two losses of the season in a 3-1 loss to Virginia Wesleyan University and a 3-1 loss to University of Lynchburg in a non-conference tri-match on Saturday.
 
In its opening match of the day, Averett (8-2) dropped its opening set 25-16 against Virginia Wesleyan (9-3). However, Averett responded with a 25-18 win in Set 2. However, the Marlins took the next two sets 25-12 and 25-12, respectively, to seal the match.

Senior Sarah Shropshire had 13 kills and 10 digs to lead Averett, which also got 10 kills and two blocks from junior Morgan Barnes. Sophomore Erin Gray finished with 18 digs and freshman Kinsley Stevens had 31 assists.

To finish the day, Averett played host Lynchburg (3-6). The Hornets took the first frame 25-18, but Averett bounced back to win 25-15 to tie the match, 1-1. The Cougars had set point in Set 3, but Lynchburg scored three consecutive points to steal it, 26-24. Lynchburg then took the fourth set 25-19 to win the match.

Barnes had a team-high 12 kills and three total blocks to lead Averett, which also got nine kills and 12 digs from senior Zamyiam Mangum. Gray led the team with 23 kills, junior Lauren Montren had eight kills and 20 digs and freshman Carlie Deason had 13 digs. Stevens chipped in 40 assists and 10 digs for the Cougars from the setter position.

Averett opens USA South Conference play on Wednesday at Mary Baldwin University.